element14 Launches Pi IoT Smarter Spaces Design Challenge

element14 launched its 2016 Pi IoT Smarter Spaces Design Challenge featuring the new Bluetooth and wireless enabled Raspberry Pi 3 microcomputer. The Pi IoT Smarter Spaces competition is challenging members to invent IoT-powered solutions that allow users to control the multiple Internet-enabled devices in any environment – be it their home, workspace, media room, backyard and more.

“There are so many Internet-enabled devices in every environment. What we’re asking our members to create is a command center that presents a new way of interacting with and controlling multiple devices in any type of personal or business space,” said Dianne Kibbey, Global Head of Content and Community, element14. “We are looking forward to seeing the innovation and know-how of the Challengers and what types of unique spaces and devices they combine.”

Thanks to a burgeoning Internet of Things, connected technologies and systems have never been more prevalent. Through this Design Challenge, element14 is tapping into the ingenuity and creativity of their 400,000-member Community to create IoT control centers that can boost efficiency and accessibility while adopting more sustainable practices. There is no limit on the number or type of smart devices members can incorporate. The Raspberry Pi 3 is the only mandatory component for Challengers to work into their projects.

element14 will accept applications for sponsored Challengers from now until Friday, May 13th. Fifteen official Challengers will be announced on May 23rd and will have 14 weeks to create their projects before the August 29th submission deadline.

Submissions to the Pi IoT Design Challenge will be evaluated by a judging panel made up of leaders in the IoT components industry, including Roger Thornton, Principal Hardware Engineer at Raspberry Pi (Trading) Ltd.

Challengers will receive a free Raspberry Pi 3 and Pi IoT Kit from element14, including a Raspberry Pi LCD 7” Touchscreen, Sense Hat, NEW Pi Camera v2 and v2 NoIR Camera, Pi Rack, Wi-Fi Dongle and more. Submissions will be judged on creativity, versatility, use of technologies and exploration of the previously unthinkable.

The grand prize winner will receive a ROBOX 3D Printer Kit and DURATOOL Kit from Newark element14, valued at $2400. The second and third place winners will receive similar prizes ranging in value from $200-$700, and all participants who publish a complete project will receive a DURATOOL Tool and Rotary Access Kit.